Analysis of media reports and public opinion surveys

Harris Campaign's $1B Spent on Celebrity Endorsements, Including Reported $10M to Beyoncé, Ends in $20M Debt

Nov 12, 2024, 11:33 AM

Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign has been reported to have spent significant sums on celebrity endorsements during her failed presidential bid, including a reported $1 million to Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions for a live-streaming event in September, as indicated by Federal Election Commission records cited in media reports. The campaign allegedly paid $10 million to Beyoncé, who delivered a five-minute speech without performing; $5 million to Megan Thee Stallion; $2.3 million to $3 million to Lizzo; and $1.8 million to Eminem for their support. Despite raising over $1 billion, Harris's campaign ended up $20 million in debt. The campaign also reportedly spent $100,000 building a set for the "Call Her Daddy" podcast, which was ultimately filmed in a hotel room, and expended $654 million on advertising, including $15 million to event production companies. Oprah Winfrey has denied receiving any personal payment, stating that she "was paid nothing—ever." The campaign's expenditures also reportedly included $500,000 to Al Sharpton's nonprofit organization prior to a favorable interview on MSNBC, and $5.4 million given to Black and Latino groups. There are concerns that the campaign's heavy spending on celebrity endorsements and events did not translate into voter support, raising questions about its financial management.